CONTENTS
Construction Site Safety
Electricity hazards
Unlike most other hazards which can be seen, felt
or heard there is no advance warning of danger
from electricity; and electricity can kill.
Electricity and electrical installations on
construction sites must always be treated with the
utmost care and be under the control and
supervision of experienced competent persons.
Hazards arise through faulty installations, lack of
maintenance and abuse of equipment.
In the Construction Industry, in one year, there
were 194 reported accidents resulting in injury,
and over 200 dangerous occurrences involving
electricity. Accidents involving live overhead lines
are a particular concern as, in the same period,
one in three proved fatal.
Electric shock is a major hazard; the severity of
the shock will depend on the level of electric
current, and the duration of the contact.
At low levels of current, about 1 milliamp, the
effect may be only an unpleasant tingle but
enough to cause loss of balance or a fall; medium
levels, of about 10 milliamps, can cause muscular
tension so that anything grasped is hard to
release. High levels of electric shock, of 50
milliamps or above, for a period of about one
second, can cause fibrillation of the heart which
can be lethal. Electric shock also causes burning
of the skin at the points of contact.
Fuses cannot be regarded as adequate
protection against electric shock. A fuse is
intended only to protect equipment from damage.
They are commonly rated at 3, 5, 10 or 13 amps
for domestic and normal business use.
1 milliamp is a one thousandth part of an amp
© Construction Industry Training Board
20. Electricity on Site
Causes of electric shock
• Contact between a live conductor and
earth
• Contact between phase and neutral
conductors (as the body is likely to be of
less resistance than any load)
According to the Health and Safety Executive, the
majority of electrical accidents happen because
people are working on or close to equipment which
is either:
• assumed to be dead, but is in fact live
• known to be live, but workers have not
received adequate training, lack adequate
equipment or have not taken adequate
precautions
Check it's dead before it kills you
Electric shock is not the only hazard. The very
high temperature that results from electric arcing
can produce severe and deep-seated burns. An
electric arc also produces intense ultra violet
radiation which can damage the eyes (arc eye).
An electrical short circuit or the use of unstable or
badly maintained equipment can ignite flammable
materials, resulting in a fire or explosion.
GE 700/20
March 1996
CONTENTS
Legislation
The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
The Electrical (Overhead Lines) Regulations 1970
The Electricity Supply Regulations 1988
The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989
The Low Voltage Electrical Equipment (Safety)
Regulations 1989
The Construction (Design and Management)
Regulations 1994
The Provision and Use of Work Equipment
Regulations 1998
The Management of Health and Safety at Work
Regulations 1999
References
HSE Guidance Notes, etc.
GS 6 Avoidance of Danger from Overhead
Electrical Lines 1991
PM 29 Electrical Hazards from Steam/Water
Pressure Cleaners 1988
HSG 47 Avoiding Danger from Underground
Services 1989
HSG 85 Electricity at Work: safe working
practices 1993
HSG 107 Maintaining portable and transportable
electrical equipment 1994
HSG 118 Electrical safety in arc welding 1994
HSG 141 Electrical safety on construction sites
1995
HSR 25 Memorandum of guidance on the
Electricity at Work Regulations 1989
Memorandum of Guidance on the Electricity at
Work Regulations 1989
The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989
Approved Code of Practice, Use of Electricity at
Quarries
20/2
FIRST PAGE
British Standards
BS 2754 Construction of electrical equipment for
protection against electric shock
BS 4293 Specification for residual current
operated circuit breakers 1993
BS 4363 Specification for distribution assemblies
for electricity supplies for construction and building
sites 1991
BS 5345 Code of practice for selection and
installation and maintenance of electrical
apparatus for use in potentially explosive
atmospheres
BS 7071 Specification for portable residual current
devices 1992
BS 7288 Specifications for socket outlets
incorporating residual current devices (SRCDs)
BS 7375 Code of practice for the distribution of
electricity on construction and building sites
BS 7430 Code of practice for earthing 1998
BS 7671 Requirements for electrical installations,
IEE wiring regulations 16th edition
BS EN 60309 Plugs, socket-outlets and couplers
for industrial purposes
Other references
Institute of Electrical Engineers
A Commentary and Guide to the IEE Regulations
(16th edition)
Chartered Institute of Building Services
Engineers
Code of Practice for Interior Lighting and Lighting
Guide for Building and Civil Engineering Sites
Construction Industry Training Board
EE 111 IEE Regulations Study Notes
VID 018 Video training programme Danger of
Death
CONTENTS
Regulations
All electrically powered tools are covered by the
Provision and Use of Work Equipment
Regulations 1998
The Provision and Use of Work Equipment
Regulations 1998 require that an employer only
supplies work equipment that is correct and
suitable for the job and ensures that the
equipment is maintained and kept in good working
order.
Where the use of the equipment involves a
specific risk to the health and safety of employees,
the use of the equipment must be restricted to
specified workers.
All work, and that includes work on electrical
systems, or work with electrical equipment, must
have been subject to a risk assessment under the
Management of Health and Safety at Work
Regulations 1999.
The Management of Health and Safety at
Work Regulations 1999 place a requirement on
every employer to make a suitable and sufficient
assessment of every work activity to detect and
define any hazard that either employees might
encounter during their work, or any other persons
who might be affected by the employer’s
operations.
Once those hazards have been identified, it is the
employer’s duty to put control measures in place,
to remove or reduce those hazards as far as is
reasonably practicable.
Where a hazard is identified that requires it, the
employer must offer health surveillance to
employees. This must be appropriate, taking into
account the risks to health and safety that have
been identified.
The employer must provide employees with
comprehensible and relevant information on any
risks that exist in the workplace and of any
control measures that are in place to reduce
those risks.
FIRST PAGE
Employees, in turn, have a duty under these
regulations to tell their employer of any work
situation which presents a risk to themselves or
their workmates, or of any matter which affects
their health and safety.
(For further information see Construction Site
Safety, Module 2, General Safety Legislation)
Both sets of regulations additionally require the
employer to provide employees with adequate
information, instruction and training to be able to
carry out any work task to the best of their ability
and in complete safety.
It cannot be emphasised too strongly that the
installation, maintenance and repair of
electrical services must only be done by a
competent, qualified electrician.
Many electrical risks can be eliminated, or reduced
by careful attention to design and planning
aspects before the start of work. Remaining risks
can be controlled by good management practices
during work.
Planning and management are key requirements
of the Construction (Design and Management)
Regulations 1994.
These regulations place health and safety
responsibilities on the client, designers and
contractors, and provide a framework for the
management of risks, including electrical risks.
A planning supervisor must be appointed by the
client and provided with relevant health and safety
information which could include a location plan (if
available) of the electrical supply system.
Hazards must be identified and inherent risks that
may arise must be eliminated or reduced.
The main principles of risk control should be
utilised, of which the following are a selection:
• if possible avoid the risk
• combat risks at source
• give priority to those measures which will
protect all the workforce
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CONTENTS
The planning supervisor must also prepare a
health and safety plan at the pre-tender stage of
the contract. This plan should contain information
on the project health and safety risks, and the
means to eliminate or reduce them.
A principal contractor must be appointed to
manage and co-ordinate the work and also to
develop the health and safety plan. This should
contain all the relevant information on how health
and safety risks will be managed.
The principal contractor also co-ordinates the
activities of other contractors and may make site
rules.
Contractors must co-operate with the planning
supervisor and comply with any rules or directions
given.
Electricity at Work Regulations
The Electricity at Work Regulations apply to all
situations involving electricity, at any place of
work, and place legal obligations on both
employers and employees.
The main points of the regulations are, briefly:
• all systems shall be of such a construction
so as to prevent, so far as is reasonably
practicable, any danger.
• all work activity, on or near a system,
including operation, use or maintenance,
shall be carried out, so far as it is
reasonably practicable, so as not to give
rise to any danger.
• any equipment provided to protect people
while they are at work on, or near, any
electrical equipment shall be suitable for
use and properly maintained.
Reference
The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989,
Regulation 4
Notes
(i) ‘System’ includes every part of the system
or installation, all conductors and electrical
equipment, whether the system is electrically
alive or dead.
20/4
FIRST PAGE
(ii) ‘Electrical equipment’ includes everything
from overhead to underground cables with
thousands of volts, right down to 6 volt circuits
and even battery-powered hand lamps. The
spark from the switch on a hand lamp could
be a source of danger in an explosive
atmosphere.
(iii) ‘Danger’ is the risk of injury to any person
(iv) ‘Injury’ means death or any injury caused
by electricity. This covers electric shock,
electric burns, fires, arcing or explosions
caused by electricity.
• the strength and capability of electrical
equipment must not be exceeded in such a
way as may give rise to any danger
Reference
The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989,
Regulation 5
All electrical equipment which may be exposed to:
• mechanical damage
• the effects of weather, temperature, etc.
• wet, dirty or corrosive conditions
• flammable or explosive dusts or gases
must be constructed, or protected to prevent, so
far as reasonably practicable, any danger arising.
Reference
The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989,
Regulation 6
• all conductors which may give rise to
danger must be insulated, protected, so
placed and have other precautions taken
so as to prevent danger
Reference
The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989,
Regulation 7
• earthing, or other protective measures
must be taken to prevent cables, other than
circuit cables, from becoming live
Reference
The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989,
Regulation 8
CONTENTS
• placing switches in the neutral side of a
circuit is prohibited, unless specific safety
precautions are taken
Reference
The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989,
Regulation 9
• all joints and connections must be
electrically sound and mechanically
suitable for use
Reference
The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989,
Regulation 10
• the use of fuses, or circuit breakers, to
protect electrical systems is required
Reference
The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989,
Regulation 11
• a suitable means must exist for:
cutting off the electricity supply to any item
of electrical equipment
isolating any such item
identifying circuits where appropriate
Reference
The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989,
Regulation 12
• adequate precautions must be taken to
prevent any danger when work is taking
place near equipment that has been made
electrically dead, especially to prevent it
from becoming live again
Reference
The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989,
Regulation 13
• no work is to take place on, or near, live
conductors unless:
it is unreasonable to make the conductor
dead, it is reasonable to allow live work, or
suitable precautions have been taken
Reference
The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989,
Regulation 14
FIRST PAGE
• adequate access, lighting and working
space must be provided, as necessary, to
prevent any injury from occurring
Reference
The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989,
Regulation 15
• no person is to be engaged in work, where
technical knowledge or experience is
necessary to prevent danger, unless they
have the knowledge and experience or are
under the appropriate supervision
Reference
The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989,
Regulation 16
Note
‘Technical knowledge and experience’ means
that the person must be competent to do their
job. To be considered competent a person
needs:
adequate knowledge of electricity
good experience of electrical work
an understanding of the system being worked
on
practical experience of that type of system
knowledge of the hazards that might arise
and the precautions that need to be taken
ability to immediately recognise unsafe
situations
Electricity supply
The supply of electricity on construction sites will
normally be provided by one or both of the
following:
1. A public supply from the local electricity
company
2. A site generator, where public supply is not
practicable or is uneconomic
Public supply
A public supply of electricity being provided
depends on the following items:
• written application being made to the local
electricity company, as soon as possible at
the planning stage
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CONTENTS
• the name, address, and telephone number
of the main contractor and developer,
giving the full site address and a location
plan
• details of the maximum demand load (in
kilowatts) which is likely to be required
during construction
• details of the maximum final demand load
(in kilowatts) which will be required when
the job is complete
• dates when the supply is needed
• a discussion with electricity company staff
to determine the necessary precautions to
avoid damage or hazards from any existing
overhead or underground cables
• the establishment of supply points (where
incoming cables will terminate), switch
gear, metering equipment and
requirements for earthing
Generators
Generators may be provided, and will be powered
by petrol or diesel engines. Attention should be
given to the siting of such equipment, in order to
minimise pollution caused by noise and fumes.
• Any private generating plant must be
installed in accordance with BS 7375. You
are advised to seek advice from the local
electricity company
• If the generator will produce over 55 V ac it
must be effectively earthed. A competent
person should test the effectiveness of the
earth
• The principle of low voltages and their
advantages should be considered further
where portable generators are used on site
• Not all portable generators available for use
on site have the 110 voltage output centre
tapped to earth. This is particularly true of
generators having dual voltage selectable
• The metal framing of the generating set
should be bonded to the metalwork of the
site distribution system
• Generators in excess of 10 kVA may
require advice from a specialist
20/6
FIRST PAGE
Overhead power lines
Generally electricity supplies above 33,000 volts
are routed overhead. Supplies below this voltage
may be either overhead or underground.
Overhead lines are normally un-insulated and can
be lethal if contact, or near contact, is made.
Electric arcs may jump a considerable distance.
The Electrical (Overhead Lines) Regulations 1970
give the minimum distances of conductors from
ground level. Care should be taken when
dumping, tipping waste, regrading, landscaping, or
when in unplanned storage areas, etc. not to
reduce these minimum clearances.
See especially Guidance Note GS 6
Minimum height of overhead cables
400 kV 7.3 m
275 kV 7.0 m
132 kV 6.7 m
33-66 kV 6.0 m
11-33 kV 5.2 m
Except for roads, when the minimum height is
5.8 m or in inaccessible places where the
minimum height may be reduced to 4.6 m.
Working near overhead power
lines
The local electricity company should be consulted
before any work commences and a safe system of
work should be devised and implemented.
Regulation 14 of the Electricity at Work
Regulations requires that either the power lines be
made DEAD or suitable precautions taken to
prevent any danger.
Practical steps that can be taken to prevent
danger from any live electrical cable or apparatus
include the placing of adequate and suitable
barriers.
If access is possible only from one side, then a
barrier, on this side only, will suffice. If the
overhead line crosses the site barriers will be
required on both sides of it. If there is a danger to
people carrying metal scaffold poles, ladders or
other conducting objects, the barrier should
exclude both people and mobile plant.
CONTENTS
Working near overhead power lines
Any ground level barriers should consist of either:
(a) a stout post and rail fence, or
(b) a tension wire fence, earthed at both ends,
having flags on the wire. The fence being
earthed in consultation with the electricity
company, or
(c) large steel drums (for example 200-litre oil
drums) filled with rubble or concrete, and
placed at frequent intervals, or
(d) an earth bank, not less than 1 m high and
marked by posts to stop vehicles, or
(e) substantial timber baulks, to act as wheel
stops
Fences, posts, oil drums, etc. should be made as
distinctive as possible by being painted with red
and white stripes. As an alternative, red and white
plastic warning flags or hazard bunting should be
used on wire fences.
FIRST PAGE
There should be a general rule prohibiting the
storage of materials in the area between the
overhead lines and the ground-level barriers.
Precautions are necessary even though work in
the vicinity of the line may be of short duration.
• Before doing any work on site consult the
local electricity company. They will
normally arrange a site meeting (which is
usually a free service) and advise on
heights, distances and other precautions. A
Code of Practice of Do’s and Don’ts is
available from most companies
• It must be assumed that all overhead lines
and cables are live unless advised
otherwise by the electricity company
• All work should be carried out under the
direct supervision of a responsible
supervisor, appointed by the employer, who
is familiar with the hazards likely to be
encountered
20/7
CONTENTS
• Ensure that safety precautions are
observed
• All plant, cranes and excavators may be
modified with suitable physical restraints to
limit their operations where applicable
• Additional care may be needed as work
proceeds because of reduced clearances
• Electronic proximity warning devices may
be fitted on crane jibs, etc.
Note
If any work takes place after dark notices and
cross bar should be illuminated. Height to be
specified by the electricity company.
Where it is necessary to work beneath live
overhead lines, additional precautions will be
required to prevent the upward movement of
ladders, scaffold poles, crane jibs, excavators
buckets, etc. Specific advice should be sought
from the electricity company, or from the Health
and Safety Executive.
Working in proximity of underground
cables
Damage to live underground cables during
excavation work is the cause of a number of
accidents resulting in injuries and disruption of
supplies. There have been occasions when such
accidents have been fatal. The electricity company
should be consulted before the commencement of
any work, which may result in the exposure of, or
damage to, underground electricity cables.
Traffic passing beneath overhead power lines
20/8
FIRST PAGE
It is essential that all those involved, particularly
machine operators, are aware of the hazards.
Before any excavation work commences:
• ensure that employees have proper and
safe work procedures and are working
under adequate supervision
• check with the electricity board that it is
safe to commence work
• obtain advice on the location and
ownership of any underground electricity
cables
• check plans to establish cable routes, as
well as their depth and voltage
• use cable location devices where
necessary and mark cable routes
During excavation:
• regard all buried cables as live. Do not
assume that pot-ended cables are dead or
disused
• hand-digging should be employed when
nearing the assumed line of the cable
• excavators and power tools should not be
used within 0.5 m of the indicated line of
cable
CONTENTS
• exposed cables should be supported and
protected against damage. They should not
be used as hand and footholds
• consult the local electricity company in all
cases of doubt
Reference
HSG 47
The memorandum of guidance on the Regulations
(Regulation 14 paragraphs 24 onwards) also deals
with overhead power lines and underground
cables.
Site distribution
As a first general guide, all wiring, etc. should
conform to the IEE Regulations, even though
much of it will be temporary. Makeshift
arrangements cause accidents and must be
avoided.
All switch gear should be freely accessible and
capable of being locked in the ‘off’ position.
Regulation 6 of the Electricity at Work Regulations
1989 specifically states that any electrical
equipment that may be exposed to adverse or
hazardous conditions must be, so far
BS 4363 Units
FIRST PAGE
as is reasonably practicable, so constructed or
protected that danger is prevented.
Wherever possible a reduced voltage system
should be used.
Site offices and other accommodation should be a
standard installation to the current IEE
Regulations.
All units for site use should comply to BS 4363
and Installations with the BS 7375. Plugs, sockets
and couplers must conform to BS 4343.
BS 4343 recommends use of the following units:
Supply incoming unit (SIU)
• Ratings up to 300 amps per phase. These
units include main switch gear and
metering equipment
Mains distribution unit (MDU)
• For the control and distribution of electricity
on site. 415 V three-phase, 230 V single-
phase ac
A combined supply incoming and distribution unit
(SIDU) may be used in some installations.
20/9
CONTENTS
Transformer units (TU)
TU 1 single-phase 230 V – 110 V
TU 3 three-phase 415 V – 110 V
Transformer units are available with different outlet
ratings, i.e. 16, 32 or 60 amps. Some units have
socket outlets switched through miniature circuit
breakers for added protection.
Such transformer units can be used for portable
tools and plant, and general floor lighting.
Outlet units (OU)
• 110 V socket outlet units
• 16 or 32 amp
Such outlet units can be used for portable tools,
floodlighting and extension outlets. They are not
usually protected by circuit breakers.
Extension outlet units (EOU)
• 110 V socket outlet
• 16 amp
Such units can be used for portable tools, local
lighting and hand lamps.
They are not usually protected by circuit breakers.
Markings
All supply, distribution and transformer units
should be marked with the warning sign shown
below from BS 5378 Safety signs and colours.
A supplementary sign with the word DANGER,
and indicating the highest voltage likely to be
present, should be placed below the warning sign.
20/10
FIRST PAGE
Earthing
All metal parts of the distribution systems and fixed
appliances not carrying a current must be
effectively earthed in accordance with BS 7430
Code of Practice for Earthing, to either:
• the metallic sheath and armouring of the
incoming supply cable
• the earthed terminal supplied by the supply
authority
• a separate earth electrode system
Periodic maintenance, inspection and testing is
essential.
Earthing via water pipes or gas pipes is not
permitted.
Monitored earthing systems are recommended for
all transportable plant operating at any voltage
above 110 V and supplied with flexible cables. In
these systems a very low voltage current
circulates continuously in the earthing circuit. If
this circuit is broken or interrupted the supply to
the plant is automatically cut off until the earth
path is made effective.
Plugs, socket outlets and couplers
Only components to BS 4343 should be used.
This covers both single and three-phase supplies
and is intended to prevent plugs designed for one
voltage being connected to sockets of another.
This is achieved by different positions of the key-
way in plug and socket.
Examples
CONTENTS FIRST PAGE

Accessories should be marked with the maximum Cables on the ground

rated operating voltage and current. Colour coding
The use of cables laid upon the ground is
may sometimes be used.
dependent on the nature of work being carried out,
Operating voltage Colour and should be:
(ac) at 50/60 Hz • only permitted for short periods
25 Violet • provided with additional protection, such as
50 White a reinforced sleeve
110-130 Yellow
220-240 Blue • clearly marked, so as not to constitute a
318-415 Red tripping hazard
500-750 Black
Suspended cables
Cables Suspended cables are permissible on condition
that:
In all site offices, workshops, huts and similar
premises, wiring, which is of permanent nature, • there is no tension or strain on connections
should comply with the IEE Wiring Regulations.
• they are adequately marked for protection
Cables used for site distribution
• they are supported on proper hooks not
• Cables that carry more than 65 volts (with nails
respect to earth) should have a continuous
• spans over 3 m are supported by catenary
armour or sheath, which is effectively
wires on poles
earthed. (This requirement does not apply
to arc welding processes.) • they are at a minimum height of 5.8 m
above ground
• Where trailing cables are used sheathing
must be earthed in addition to the normal
earth conductor Installations
All cables should have an overall protective • Installations should be in accordance with
sheathing. The three most common types in use plans drawn up by a competent person
are:
• Any work or alterations to the installation
• tough rubber sheathing (TRS), resistant to may only be undertaken by a competent
wear and abrasion. Not used near solvents person
or oils
• The installation should conform with IEE
• polyvinyl chloride (PVC). For site office and Regulations, and BS 7375 Code of
permanent work. Not suitable for outside Practice for the distribution of electricity on
work at low temperature construction sites
• polychloroprene (PCP). This is the best all
General
round type
• All installations should comply with the
Buried cables regulations as for permanent installations,
All buried cables should be: with good workmanship, and the use of
correct materials
• at least 0.5 m below ground
• protected with tiles or covers or placed in a
duct
• in a trench marked to indicate their route

20/11
CONTENTS
Testing
• Every installation should be tested in
accordance with the IEE Regulations at
three-monthly intervals or shorter periods if
necessary
• The record of any testing and inspections
should be made by a responsible person
on the appropriate certificates
• Testing and inspections must include:
a visual inspection
the continuity of final circuit conductors
the continuity of protective conductors
the earth electrode resistance
the insulation resistance
polarity
the earth fault loop impedance
the correct operation of residual current
devices and fault voltage operated
protective devices
Weekly inspections should be made of the whole
system, including all portable electric tools.
Records should also be kept of all these
inspections.
Power requirements
The calculation for power requirements should be
left to an experienced person or to the electricity
company.
To enable the total site requirements to be
established, a site demand table listing items of
plant, equipment and general site requirements
should be completed (see Appendix D). A guide to
voltages required for typical plant is also listed in
Appendix D.
When computing the demand, it is permissible to
allow a diversity factor (assuming not all
appliances will be in use at the same time), and a
figure of not more than 50% is generally
acceptable. Care should be taken to ensure that
items such as lighting and heating remain at their
full rated value, because heaters used in huts
20/12
FIRST PAGE
and drying rooms, or for water and cooking
apparatus, tend to be left on.
Work on site
The activities of sub-contractors and others
installing electrical equipment, lifts, heating,
ventilation etc. must be carefully monitored to
ensure that they do not jeopardise electrical safety
or leave an installation in a dangerous condition.
The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 apply to
all work on site, irrespective of the voltage and
whether it is a permanent or temporary supply.
Particular care is needed in respect of any
alterations and extensions to existing installations,
especially in the identification of circuits.
Reference
HSG 85 and HSG 141
Residual current devices
RCDs or ELCBs (earth leakage circuit
breakers)
When installed, these devices sense a current
flow to earth, or an imbalance in the current in the
circuit. They disconnect the supply before a
person can receive a potentially lethal shock. They
also protect plant and equipment, and prevent the
installation from catching fire. RCDs must be
installed by competent electricians and should be
regularly tested.
RCDs do not reduce current flow, nor the voltage,
only the time that the current flows (about 30
milliseconds), and thereby the severity of the
shock.
Advice on suitable RCDs for construction sites
should be sought from manufacturers.
It should be noted that the use of a RCD does not
give 100% guarantee of safety.
The device does not have a fail-safe feature and
will not give an indication if it is faulty. Additionally,
because it only protects against earth faults, it will
not function if current is passing from a live to
neutral phase. It is possible for a worker to get an
electric shock even though a RCD is fitted to the
circuit and is operating correctly.
CONTENTS
Portable and hand-held electric
tools
All portable and hand-held electric tools should be
selected according to the principles of risk control.
For example, where there is a very high risk of
electric shock, due to site conditions, the use of
air-operated equipment will eliminate the risk.
Reduced voltage systems for use with
portable and hand-held electric tools
A reduced low voltage system, i.e. virtually safe,
which is recommended as the safest type of
system for building and construction sites, is one
where the phase to earth voltage does not exceed:
• 55 volts to earth in the case of a single
phase centre tapped to earth supply
• 63.5 volts to earth in the case of a three
phase neutral point earthed supply
The maximum recommended voltage to earth for a
reduced low voltage system is stated as 65 volts.
Both of these systems will offer a phase to phase
voltage of 110 volts for supplying power tools on
site.
A reduced low voltage system will eliminate the
risk of death from a phase to earth shock in the
majority of situations. Other safer systems, i.e.
compressed air, battery power etc., should be
considered when working in confined spaces or
damp conditions.
Outputs of 240 volts or 110 volts
110 volt systems that are neither centre tapped or
neutral point earthed can be equally as lethal as a
240 volt system in phase to earth faults. In certain
situations, even reduced low voltages are not safe.
The maximum voltage for portable and hand-held
electric tools should be 110 V centre tapped to
earth. Flexible cables should be kept as short as
possible, frequently checked for damage and
properly repaired as necessary.
FIRST PAGE
An appropriate maintenance system should be
established for all portable electrical equipment
and should include user checks, regular visual
inspections and combined inspection and
electrical testing as necessary. It is recommended
that 110 V portable and hand-held tools should
have the following inspection and testing facilities.
• User check Weekly
• Visual inspection Monthly
• Combined inspection and test before first
use and thereafter three-monthly.
General advice is given in HSG 107 Maintaining
portable and transportable electrical equipment.
Insulating tape by itself is neither a legal nor
satisfactory repair, either on conductors or the
cable sheath.
Long leads trailing over the ground or floor and
creating a tripping hazard must be avoided. Care
must be taken in the use of cable drums or reels,
as internal cable terminations may become loose.
They can overheat and cause a fire. Drums and
reels should be inspected regularly for signs of
damage or wear.
All insulated or double-insulated tools
manufactured in accordance with BS 2754 and
with the recognised symbol attached, give extra
protection against the danger of electric shock.
Fuses
Fuses usually blow for a reason. The reason
should be investigated and rectified before a fuse
is replaced.
Nails, screws, wire or silver paper must never be
used to replace fuses. It is illegal as well as very
dangerous.
Lighting
Lighting is needed for safety, productivity and
security.
The Construction (Health, Safety and Welfare)
Regulations require that every working place,
approach, dangerous opening and lifting appliance
be adequately and suitably lighted.
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There are many different types of lighting, each
with its own most suitable application. Advice
should be sought in order to obtain the best light
for a particular place, considering such factors as
colour rendition, humidity and flammable or
explosive atmosphere, etc.
Reference
PM 38 Selection and use of electrical hand
lamps
Levels of illumination
Illumination is measured in units of lumens or lux,
which is the amount of light falling on one square
metre.
Light meters are used to check levels of
illumination. Illumination should be measured at
the workplace, not at the light fitting.
There are certain factors which can affect the
efficiency of lighting, such as:
• the amount of daylight available
• the cleanliness and maintenance of light
fittings and reflectors
• the reflections from walls and ceilings
• the distance of the light source from the
workplace
• shadows thrown from furniture and fittings
• adaptable, remembering that 50 to 100%
more light is required for persons over 40
years of age
• increased if necessary, because more light
will be required in hazardous situations and
when goggles are worn
• so positioned that it can be screened or
shielded from reflective surfaces, on traffic
routes, etc.
• treated as a heat source, with the
possibility of burns or fire hazards
Site lighting
Area lighting with floor lights or beam floodlights:
• all areas should receive light from at least
two directions
• fittings mounted on poles, towers and high
masts must be securely stayed
• fittings spaced at usually not more than two
or three times the mounting height

When considering the level of illumination required

at a workplace, it should be remembered that if the
distance from the light source to the workplace is
doubled, the illumination level will be reduced to
one quarter (inverse square law). For
recommended levels for site lighting, see
Appendix B.

The mounting of lights

Lighting should be:
• mounted as high as possible above the
work level
• positioned so as to prevent glare, dazzle or
reflection
• able to change position as work proceeds
• 230 V is generally accepted for fixed
floodlighting, mounted well above ground
• installations to BS 7375, equipment to
BS 4363
• additional lighting should be provided in
hazardous areas

Dust and dirt on lights can absorb up to 20% of

their output and cleaning is often cost-effective in

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CONTENTS FIRST PAGE

maintaining adequate levels of lighting for both
working and safety.
Local lighting
This is usually of the tungsten filament type.
• It is used to supplement the general area
lighting scheme
• Small sources of light tend to produce
shadows; they should be used with a
diffuser or be hung in rows
• Lights should be positioned in the same
direction as the permanent source in order
to show up any blemishes in the work
• Pendant fittings should be supported so as
not to tension the supply cable. They
should be of the festoon type only with
moulded on lampholders and protective
guards
Types include dispersive, cargo, cluster,
fluorescent trough, wall glass unit, bulkhead unit
tungsten or fluorescent.
• Fittings should be similar to the industrial
indoor type but waterproof
• They should be mounted centrally,
overhead where possible
• They should be spaced usually one-and-a-
half times mounted height, but the
manufacturer's recommendations should
be followed
• They should be mounted as high as
possible to give an even spread of light
• Mains voltage (230 V) should only be used
where the installation is well protected and
of a permanent nature. Reduced voltages
should be used for regular site work

• The common type of lighting used by

operatives should be 110 V reduced
voltage
• Care should be taken not to dazzle or
cause a nuisance to anyone outside the
site boundary
For a guide to the characteristics and types of
electric lamp, see Appendix C.

Dispersive lighting
Used over working areas, walkways, ladder
access, stairs, etc.

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CONTENTS
Hand lamps
• Hand lamps must never be run from a 230
V supply. They should be used on 110 V
or lower, and preferably from a safety extra
low voltage supply (SELV)
• Lamps should all be insulated or double
insulated to BS 4533 Class 2
• The use of extra low voltage hand lamps,
even down to 12 V, does not give any
protection against fire or explosion in
flammable or potentially explosive
atmospheres if the bulb is broken. In such
hazardous areas, only lamps to BS 5345
should be used
• Special care is needed in sumps, pits, etc.
where petrol, LPG fumes or other
flammable gas might collect. All electrical
equipment should be BASEEFA approved
• In confined spaces, boilers, tunnels,
cramped locations or other hostile damp or
humid atmospheres, lamps supplied should
work at 25 volts
Permit to Work
Permit to Work systems are essential to ensure
safe working and freedom from hazards where
high-voltage electrical supplies, cables and
equipment exist, particularly in installation,
maintenance or construction work.
The Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 and the
Management of Health and Safety at Work
Regulations 1999 both indicate the need for
written safe systems of work in specific
circumstances. A Permit to Work system should
form part of that ‘safe system’.
Permits to Work must only be issued by an
appointed authorised person, using duplicate and
numbered printed forms as the example shown
(see Appendix E). They must be signed by an
authorised person and by the competent person
who is to carry out (or be responsible for) the work
described on the permit.
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FIRST PAGE
Most systems contain provisions for the physical
locking off of switches, etc. and the retention or
display of keys or permits.
One copy of the permit must be retained for the
duration of the work by the person to whom it is
issued. Before apparatus is made live again, the
permit must be returned for cancellation. At
cancellation it must be countersigned by both the
holder and the authorised person.
The authorised person should keep a record in the
job file of the issued permits and their cancellation.
Before work starts, the authorised person should
ensure that the Permit to Work will cover the
making safe from all possible sources of supply.
If the work is handed over from one competent
person to another, the permit is to be endorsed by
the authorised person and transferred to the
second operative.
Under no circumstances should anyone work on,
maintain, repair or otherwise adjust high voltage
apparatus except in accordance with the
instructions and terms of a formal Permit to Work
system. See HSG 85
Dealing with electric shock
emergencies
On a construction site, a plan should be prepared
for potential emergencies that may occur,
including electric shock. This is a requirement of
the Management of Health and Safety at Work
Regulations 1999.
The plan should include:
• posting notices in appropriate and
prominent places publicising the
emergency procedures
• training sufficient workers in the
procedures to follow in treating an electric
shock casualty, including first aid action
• instructing workers in the action to take in
the event of someone receiving an electric
shock. For example, switching off the
electrical supply, calling the emergency
services, etc.
CONTENTS
Safety checklist
Permit to Work
• Are the instructions clear about who can
grant permits and the time when a permit
comes into operation or expires?
• Who is the manager responsible for
overseeing Permit to Work systems?
• What is the procedure for co-ordinating the
activities of different trades working on the
same job?
• What is the procedure for informing other
contractors and sub-contractors that a
Permit to Work system exists?
• Have all operatives been instructed and
trained in safety procedures, such as
Permit to Work systems, locking off, and
treatment for electric shock?
• Have Permit to Work documents and
procedures been checked and agreed by
the employer and employee
representatives to ensure all necessary
safeguards have been provided?
• Is the Permit to Work procedure regularly
reviewed and updated?
(See HSG 85)
Cables
• Have all necessary precautions been taken
where overhead lines exist close to the
site?
• Are distribution cables so positioned that
they do not cause a hazard at openings,
passages, ladders, stairs, etc.?
• Have precautions been taken to ensure
that cables lying on the ground have been
protected from physical damage or wet
conditions?
FIRST PAGE
Construction Site Safety
20. Appendix A
• Have the necessary precautions been
taken to ensure that cables do not hang
directly from nails, etc. which may cause
insulation damage?
• Are cables protected from the edges of
sharp objects?
• Have all possible precautions been taken
to ensure that suspended cables do not
carry any weight? Are they supported by
rods or catenary wires?
• Are all cables visible, with, if necessary,
yellow and black or red and white plastic
bunting strips attached?
• Is there an adequate supply of extension
cable for use on the site?
• Are all junctions and repairs properly
carried out by qualified personnel?
• Are electrical circuits used for the correct
purpose? I.e. lighting circuits must not be
used for power tools, especially where
lighting festoons are fitted with trailing
leads
• Are buried cables correctly protected by a
450 mm cover and cover tiles? Is the line
of the cable also clearly marked?
• Are cables capable of carrying the load
required and are they adequate for their
purpose?
Plugs, etc.
• Are all plugs in good condition, not cracked
or otherwise damaged?
• Are splash-proof covers being used as
necessary?
• Are the correct plugs properly fitted to
equipment, especially those used by sub
contractors?
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CONTENTS
• Are all plugs being used suitable for the
site conditions prevailing?
• Have any plugs been forced into the wrong
sockets (by the removal of keys, etc.)?
• When plugs have been fitted, have the
correct connections been made, with the
wire being correctly colour coded?
• Are cable grips being used and is the earth
cable fitted with some slack, so that it is the
last to be pulled out?
• Have all possible steps been taken to
ensure that there are no improvised
junctions, nails, matches, silver paper, etc.
being used in place of the correct
equipment?
• Is the correct type of fuse with the proper
rating fitted?
• Have earth leakage breakers been fitted?
• Have all made-up leads or extension
cables, etc. been correctly assembled by a
competent electrician?
Power tools
• Are all power tools used manufactured to
BS 2769 (Kite Mark) or double insulated
mark (BS 2754)?
• Is the tool fitted with the correct type and
size of plug?
• Is the plug undamaged?
• Are cable clamps secure?
• Have checks been made to ensure that
Checklist for operatives
trailing leads are not cut or frayed?
• Is the cable protected from excessive
flexing by a rubber sleeve where the cable
enters the tool?
• Are all screws in place and secure?
20/18
FIRST PAGE
• Have the tools or machines been checked
to ensure that there are no cracks, or
missing pieces ?
• Is the chuck in good condition and is the
correct key attached?
• Have checks been carried out to ensure
that any bit retaining mechanism is in good
working order?
• Have checks been made to ensure that the
nameplate is secure with details of:
Type Serial number
Voltage Volts ac/dc
Frequency (normally 50 HZ)
Current Amps
Speed RPM
and other details, depending on
manufacturer?
• Is there a system of regular planned
inspections and maintenance, by a
competent person, when the power tools
are returned to stores? (See HSG 107)
• Have checks been carried out to ensure
that the permissible number of power tools
on each circuit has not been and is not
being exceeded?
• Are power tools only being issued to
specific employees and not for general
use?
• Have users been properly and adequately
trained?
• Are the provisions of the Abrasive Wheel
Regulations and the Provision and Use of
Work Equipment Regulations being
complied with?
• Are all machines disconnected before any
adjustment or work is carried out on them?
• Are all machines disconnected when not in
use?
• Have checks been carried out to ensure
that any colour codings are correct?
CONTENTS
• Are cables of an adequate rating for the
tool that is being used?
• Are checks carried out to ensure that no
unofficial cables, etc. are being used?
• Have instructions been issued to ensure
that no makeshift repairs or maintenance
are carried out?
• Are all defects reported immediately to a
competent person?
• Is the machine kept clean and free from
damp?
• Are all connections correctly made,
including waterproofing?
• Are all operatives aware that they should
never carry any tool or machine by its
cable?
• Have instructions been issued to ensure
that no machine is started or stopped
under load?
Working near overhead power
lines
• Is everyone working on site aware that no
work should take place:
(i) within 9 m of overhead power
lines on wood, concrete or steel poles,
or
(ii) within 15 m of overhead power lines
on steel towers, or
(iii) until the electricity company
consulted for advice?
Are all personnel working close to overhead power
lines aware that the distances mentioned in the
preceding question are measured horizontally at
ground level from directly below the outermost
conductor?
Note
Electricity companies have different rules for the
lateral swing of conductors in high winds and the
distance of barriers may vary between
companies.
FIRST PAGE
Precautions near live overhead power
lines
• Has an essential ongoing system of liaison
between employer or contractor and the
electricity company been established?
• Where overhead power lines have been
diverted or (if possible) made dead, or
where live lines remain, have all practicable
steps been taken to provide adequate
barriers, goal posts, etc. to comply with the
relevant regulations?
• Have adequate arrangements been made
for the passage of tall plant, etc. at specific
times where overhead power lines have
been made dead?
Work beneath overhead power lines
• On sites where work will take place below
overhead power lines, have additional
precautions, as necessary, been taken, as
well as the provision of barriers with
passageways?
• Is all work carried out under the direct
supervision of a responsible person,
familiar with the hazards, after consultation
with local electricity company?
Passage beneath overhead power lines
• If there is no work or passage of plant
under overhead power lines, have barriers
been positioned so as to prevent any close
approach of any plant, equipment or
personnel to within at least 6 m from the
is overhead power lines? (See guidance note
GS6)
• Does all plant passing under overhead
lines use a defined passageway, protected
by barriers, etc.?
Alterations to buildings
• Have all electrical circuits been identified
before any work is allowed to start?
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CONTENTS FIRST PAGE

• Is there a plan to remove old wiring and

equipment which is no longer required, as
early as possible?

Commissioning new parts of the

electrical installation
• Has the principal contractor prepared an
agreed plant commissioning programme?

• Are all the relevant contractors aware of

this programme?

• Is the programme regularly monitored?

• Is each part of the installation that is being

worked on securely isolated (lock tag and
try)?

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Construction Site Safety

20. Appendix B
Recommended levels for site lighting

Applies to both indoor and outdoor activities and relates to the value on the ground, floor or horizontal working
plane.They may require adjustment according to district brightness.

Purpose Governing factors Design value lux

Security Depending on the degree of risk 5–30

Movement and handling Movement of people, machines and vehicles, handling of 20

materials, walkways and access routes

Stores and stockyards For stored goods, etc. 30

Site entrances 30

General work area General rough work, site clearance 50

Craft work Reinforcing concreting, shuttering erection, bricklaying, 100

scaffolding

Fine craft work Joinery, all work with power tools and circular saws, plastering, 300
painting, electrical, plumbing, shop fitting, brickwork

Special work (3) Retouching paint, french polishing 500

Site huts Rest rooms, locker rooms, toilets 150

Site offices On desks and reference tables, general lighting of drawing 500
office

Drawing offices on site On drawing boards 750

Emergency lighting For escape and standby purposes 5–70

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Construction Site Safety

20. Appendix C
Guide to the characteristics and types of electric lamp

Brief lamp Tungsten Tungsten Mercury Fluorescent Sodium Sodium

characteristics filament halogen vapour tubular vapour vapour
(GLS) (T-H) (MBF) (MCF) low high
pressure pressure
(SOX) (SON)

Wattage range 40/1500 300/2000 50/2000 6/85 35/180 250/1000

Voltage range 25/250 110/250 200/250 110/250 200/250 220/250

*Efficacy 10-18 17-22 35-55 41-68 124-175 80-100

(Lumens Watt)

Colour rendering Good Good Fair Good Poor Good

Resistance to Poor Fair Good Good Good Good

vibration

Normal life (hours) 1000 2000 7500 5000/7500 6000 6000

Restrictions on None Horizontal None None For road None

use or on position 4 degrees lighting only

* The efficacy is the measure of effectiveness of converting electrical energy into usable light

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Construction Site Safety

20. Appendix D
Electrical demand for construction sites
Plant Portable Tools Site Lighting Temp
415 V 3 phase 110 V 1/3 phase 110 V 1 phase Accommodation
230 V 1 phase

Type kW No Total Type kW No Total Location Type kW Requirement kW

Tower crane Chasers Lighting
Hoist Hammers Heating
Platform Saw drills Water heating
hoist drying
Compressor Sanders Cooking
Pump 'A' Vibrators Power
Pump 'B' Air blowers Printing, etc.
Saw bench Dehumidifiers Fixed
Batching Floodlighting
plant
Total load Total load Total load Total load
Diversity factor Diversity factor Diversity factor Diversity factor
Demand load Demand load Demand load Demand load

For calculation purposes - check only the formula: ixV = W should be used
where i = current in amps
V = voltage
W = wattage

Typical electrical supplies used on construction sites

Volts Phase Derived from Special provision Application

415 3 Supply undertaking Fixed and transportable equipment above 5 hp, e.g.
crane, hoist, compressor, concrete mixer, and large
scale personnel amenities
240 1 Supply undertaking Site offices, personnel amenities and fixed
floodlighting
110 3 415 V transformer Secondary winding phase Transportable equipment up to 5 hp, e.g. vibrators,
to earth 64 V pumps, site lighting other than fixed floodlighting, and
hand tools
110 1 230 V transformer Secondary winding outers All portable and transportable tools up to 2.5 hp and
to earth 55 V site lighting
50 1 Transformer Secondary winding outers Dangerous situations, tunnelling work, inside boilers,
to earth 25 V confined spaces
25 1 Transformer Secondary winding outers Dangerous situations, tunnelling work, inside boilers,
to earth 12.5 V confined spaces

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CONTENTS FIRST PAGE

Construction Site Safety

20. Appendix E
Permit to Work on high voltage equipment

No.

Issued to ........................................................................ Job ..................................................................................

I hereby declare that it is safe to work on the following H.V. apparatus which is dead, isolated from all live
conductors and is connected to earth.

All other apparatus is dangerous

SWITCHING AND ISOLATING. The apparatus is disconnected from all live conductors by the following operations.

EARTHING. The equipment is earthed at the following points

DANGER NOTICES. Are posted at

AUTOMATIC FIRE EXTINGUISHING CONTROL has been rendered inoperative at

OTHER PRECAUTIONS

Signed .................................................................. Date ............................................ Time ....................................

(Authorised person)

I hereby declare that I accept responsibility for carrying out work on the apparatus detailed on this permit and that no
attempt will be made by me, nor by any man under my control, to carry out work on any other apparatus

Signed .................................................................. Date ............................................ Time ....................................

Note: After signature for work to proceed, this receipt must be signed by, and the Permit to Work retained by, the
person in charge of the work until work is suspended or completed and the clearance section has been signed.

This is to certify that the work authorised above has been completed or stopped* and that all men under my charge
have been withdrawn and warned that it is no longer safe to work on the apparatus specified on this Permit to Work
and that gear, tools and additional earthing connections are all cleared. Automatic fire extinguishing control has been
restored.

Permit to Work is hereby cancelled

Signed .................................................................. Date ............................................ Time ....................................

(Authorised person)

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Construction Site Safety

20. Appendix F
High voltage safety

THIS IS TO CERTIFY THAT .................................................................................................................

is the person responsible on this site for seeing that the Rules for the safe operation of H.V.
systems and the Permit to Work system are complied with in every respect.

Signed .............................................................................. Date ............................................................

Status .............................................................................. Company .....................................................

The authorised person(s) for H.V. switching, isolation, testing and earthing is (are):

................................................................................................................................................................

................................................................................................................................................................

................................................................................................................................................................

................................................................................................................................................................

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